The 1950s were a transformative time in the world of mobile homes, particularly with the rise of brands like Schult. Known for their sleek and functional designs, Schult mobile homes provided an affordable housing solution that blended modern convenience with the charming aesthetic of mid-century living. The interiors of Schult mobile homes were a testament to the era’s emphasis on practicality, comfort, and style, making them a popular choice for many American families.
Wilbur Schult started in Elkhart, IN, in 1933 as a dealer for Covered Wagon Trailers and in 35 became the national distributor for Sportsman trailers also in Elkhart. In March of 1936 he bought the Sportsman Trailer Company from its founder, Milo Miller, and changed the name to Schult Trailer Coach which quickly grew to be one of the largest manufacturer in the world by 1940 with several plants in the US and also in Canada and New Zealand.
Miller went on to start both the Elcar and National trailer companies also. In 1934 Walter O. Wells and Wilbur Schult opened a shop in Ekhart with 20 carpenters and produced their first Schult trailer. By April of 1937, Schult had 2 plants in Elkhart with over 250,000 combined square feet of manufacturing space and had created a division in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He produced over 1500 trailers in 1937. He continued his dramatic growth and opened a division in Christchurch, New Zealand making him perhaps the first manufacturer producing units in three countries and on two continents. Schult Trailers produced many industry innovations. That was the first manufacturer to extend his units standard width from 7 1/2 to a full 8 feet and the first to offer 7’ feet ceilings. That was the first manufacturer to build a full steel frame under his entry level products.
Schult Trailers designed and installed an optional full trailer “air conditioning system” which circulated air over a vault of ice to cool the trailer. 1938 Continental Clipper was so remarkable that its owners included King Farouk of Egypt who later sold it to a Maharaja in India. Schult also built the trailers for the famed 1947 Gatti-Hallicrafters African Expedition. In 1957, the Schult Trailer Company evolved into the Schult Mobile Home Company and turned its attention completely to the manufactured housing. This company continues today as Schult Homes.
The living room in a 1950s Schult mobile home was often a compact yet inviting space. The focus was on maximizing utility within a small footprint. Built-in furniture, such as fold-out couches and multi-functional shelving units, was common. The walls were typically adorned with wood paneling or wallpaper in muted colors, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. Large windows allowed for plenty of natural light, making the small space feel more open and airy.
The kitchen in a Schult mobile home was often the heart of the house, designed with practicality in mind. Cabinets were made from lightweight materials, often metal, and featured sleek, simple lines. The countertops were typically Formica, which was durable and easy to clean, available in a range of colors and patterns that reflected the mid-century love for bold, graphic designs. Appliances were compact but efficient, with the classic 1950s turquoise or pastel-colored stoves and refrigerators adding a pop of color to the space.
Many Schult models included a small dining area adjacent to the kitchen. These spaces often featured built-in dinettes with vinyl-upholstered benches and Formica-topped tables. The seating areas were typically compact but comfortable, allowing for family meals in a space-efficient manner. The overall vibe was casual yet stylish, reflecting the post-war era's emphasis on family togetherness and shared meals.
The bedrooms in a Schult mobile home were designed to make the most of limited space. Closets were built-in, and storage was often found under the beds or in overhead cabinets. The beds themselves were often twin or full-sized, with simple, clean-lined headboards. The walls, like in the living areas, were typically paneled, and windows were strategically placed to allow for cross-ventilation, a necessity in the pre-central air conditioning era.
Schult mobile home bathrooms of the 1950s were typically small but packed with everything needed for modern convenience. They often included a shower or small bathtub, a sink, and a toilet. Chrome fixtures and tile patterns in pastel shades such as pink, mint green, or light blue were common, reflecting the mid-century aesthetic. Storage was typically limited to small cabinets or shelves built into the walls.
The overall interior design of Schult mobile homes in the 1950s mirrored the broader trends of the time. There was a clear focus on space-saving solutions, with built-in furniture and multifunctional design elements. Colors tended to be soft pastels or earth tones, creating a relaxed and harmonious feel. Materials like metal, Formica, and vinyl were popular for their affordability and durability. The design ethos was one of simplicity, practicality, and understated elegance.
This nostalgic glimpse into the 1950s Schult mobile home interior showcases a unique era of housing that combined functionality with the emerging mid-century modern design sensibilities. The compact yet comfortable interiors offered a practical solution for families, embodying the optimism and innovation of post-war America.
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